This report consists of data describing participation in adult education in 1981. Estimates in the report are based on supplementary questions in the May 1981 Current Population Survey conducted and tabulated for the National Center for Education Statistics by the Bureau of the Census. Examined first are the following characteristics of participants in adult education: age and sex, race/ethnic groups, level of education, annual family income, geographic area, labor force status, and occupation of employed participants. Following a description of the types of courses taken by participants in adult education, data are presented concerning reasons for taking courses, providers of instruction, and major sources of funding. Appended to the report are 10 tables; technical notes concerning the sample design, estimating methods, and reliability of data; and a copy of the survey instrument. (MN)